Disciplining Children

O. T. #1460  "Disciplining Children"
June 7, 2019
Proverbs 13

LET IT GLOW

Disciplining children is a difficult topic to discuss. There are so many opinions on techniques. However, God's Word should be our priority for guidance. So shall we dig in and find some gold nuggets for life?

As we read through Proverbs, isn't it obvious that King Solomon listened to his father David? He is an example of a wise son who heard his father's instruction. Although, an example of the scorner who did not listen is Rehoboam, Solomon's son.

Look at verse 20: He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Don't we watch those who our children are friends are with? Are they making wise decisions? One bad apple can spoil the whole barrel. We can apply that saying to friendships. They should spend time with people they want to be like. That would include adults, too.

When people need advice, who do they usually seek? They go to their friends first. Now these are the ones who accept them and usually agree with them. But friends are not able to help with difficult problems since they are so much like us. Therefore, we should seek older and wiser people for advise. Wise people have experienced a lot of life-and have succeeded. They aren't afraid to tell the truth. Do we have wise, godly people which we can seek, those who will warn us of the pitfalls ahead?

LET IT GROW

How much do we love our children? Enough to discipline them, correct their ways when wrong, explain why they can't do something?

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chastenteh him betimes.
Proverbs 13:24 KJV

NLT puts it this way, Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

It isn't easy being a good parent. The loving parent takes on the responsibility of nurturing and guiding their children, which is what God tells us to do. Character development is a lifetime job. If we desire wise children, we must teach them right and wrong. Then they will seek wisdom from God when they are an adult. Discipline seems to be going by the wayside. Parents who neglect discipline then others must do it for them, which should not be. Society ought not have that total responsibility.

Now, as a child of God, do we accept His discipline in our life? Do we change our ways? Is "no" an okay answer?


LET IT GO

May I keep company with wise people, not fools.
I need discernment.
Help me accept Your discipline in my life.
Although it is hard to discipline my grandchildren, remind me that it is done because I love them and desire them to do right.